Can visitors participate in Zen meditation at Rinzaiji Temple?

The temple occasionally offers Zen meditation sessions, where visitors can experience traditional Zen practices under the guidance of the temple monks.

What is the best time to visit Rinzaiji Temple?

The temple is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn, with the gardens showcasing seasonal flowers and colorful foliage.

How can I reach Rinzaiji Temple using public transportation?

Rinzaiji Temple is accessible by bus from Shizuoka Station. The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the temple, making it easily reachable for visitors.

Shizuoka

Rinzaiji Temple, Shizuoka

4.2 (335)Buddhist TempleTourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Jun 7, 2026

Rinzaiji Temple is a treasure trove of history and culture tucked away at the base of Mt. Shizuhata. This temple is a key site in the Myoshinji Sect of the Rinzai School of Buddhism, with roots dating back to the Imagawa clan. Established by Imagawa Yoshimoto, it was built to honor his elder brother, Ujiteru, on the site of their family villa.

The temple’s architecture is a classic example of shoin style, with the main hall, Muso-an teahouse, and shoin drawing room all recognized as Important Cultural Properties. These areas are only accessible to the public twice a year—during the spring on the anniversary of Yoshimoto’s death and in autumn during a grand festival dedicated to Marici, a deity worshipped by Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Rinzaiji is also famous for its connection to Tokugawa Ieyasu, who spent part of his youth here as a hostage under the Imagawa clan.

Hours

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Phone

+81 54-245-2740

Website

hellonavi.jp

Overview

Address

7-1 Ōiwachō, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka, 420-0885, Japan

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Daidogei World Cup

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Kinomiya Shrine

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Okuoikojo Station

Nihondaira Zoo

Daidogei World Cup

Kinomiya Shrine

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

Very well kept and beautiful tranquil place. The wood work is top tier. There is not a lot of walking around to do and is really just a quick visit and move on.

Roengoer

Apr 2, 2025

Public viewing only available twice a year - 19 May and 15 Oct. Soliciting into the precinct is not disallowed but the chanted sutra will give you a sense that this is not a place to come for pleasure of sightseeing.

I will visit Rinzai-ji whenever I visit Shizuoka. It has a feeling of absolute peace, that only Zen Temples have. It has a beautiful garden, including some rock gardens. Just sit and enjoy the feeling for about half an hour. I first went because of its historical importance. Tokugawa Ieyasu, the man who united Japan and established the Tokugawa Shogunate was lodged in Shizuoka as a hostage for his family's good behaviour as a young boy and returned to Sumpu (Shizuoka) in his 'retirement' and built a huge castle in the center of town. It was at this temple that he was lodged as a young boy. He came of age at the more-frequently visited but less impressive, nearby Shrine.

Great place, very spiritual. Guide was incredible. Very detailed and full of facts. All in English. If given another chance I would definitely come back and visit the place. The only thing you must remember you will not be allowed every time. Research beforehand.

This is a famous temple in Shizuoka City. However, I have never been there before. Visitors are not allowed, so I can only visit on two open days a year, so I will try again. It is a temple related to the Imagawa clan. I visited the grave of Taira no Sessai, the military strategist of Imagawa Yoshimoto. There is also the grave of Nakamura Hajime, a feudal lord from the Sengoku period.